Professionalism, personal taste and social inclusion : does it matter what clients wear?

Davys, D; Pope, KH; Taylor, JA

Abstract

An earlier opinion piece considered the professional issues surrounding the occupational therapists dress code within the work place (Davys et al 2006). This second paper considers the role of the occupational therapist when a clients choice of clothing may conflict with social expectations and negatively impact upon social inclusion. Three hypothetical cases that reflect clinical realities are presented, which serve as prompts for reflection upon informed choice, professional responsibilities and the therapeutic relationship. This paper concludes that there needs to be debate about the conflict between each of these areas and the concept of social inclusion.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Apr 1, 2008
• Deposit Date: Apr 13, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 5, 2016
• Journal: British Journal of Occupational Therapy
• Print ISSN: 0308-0226
• Electronic ISSN: 1477-6006
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 71
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 165-167
• Publisher URL: http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/cot/bjot/2008/00000071/00000004/art00007